Helping you

get ready for

test day

The test that opens

doors around the world
This booklet provides an overview
of the IELTS test and some tools
and advice to help you prepare.

Contents
Which test do you need?

IELTS nine-band scale

Tips for your test

Tips for your Listening test
Tips for your Reading test
Tips for your Writing test
Tips for your Speaking test

6
6
7
8
9

How your skills are assessed

Speaking assessment criteria
Writing assessment criteria Task 1
Writing assessment criteria Task 2

10
11
12
13

How to complete the Listening answer sheet

14

Sample speaking tests

16

IELTS preparation checklist

17

What to expect on test day

18

Receiving your results

19

Find a test near you

20

Get more preparation material and advice

21

IELTS Support Tools

IELTS, the International English Language Testing System, is designed

to assess the language ability of people who want to study or work where
English is the language of communication.
IELTS is recognised and accepted by over 9,000 organisations worldwide,
including universities, employers, professional bodies, immigration authorities
and other government agencies. For a list of organisations that accept IELTS
scores, visit IELTSessentials.com/whoaccepts.

Accessible and convenient

IELTS is offered up to four times a month in more than
140 countries. Tests are held on Saturdays and Thursdays.
To find out test dates in your area, please contact your
nearest IELTS test centre. A list of IDP IELTS test locations
is available at IELTSessentials.com/testcentres.
The international test
IELTS is internationally focused in its content. For example,
texts and tasks are sourced from publications from all over
the English-speaking world; a range of native-speaker accents
(North American, Australian, New Zealand, etc.) are
used in the Listening test; all standard varieties of English
are accepted in test takers written and spoken responses.
The test thats tried and trusted
IELTS has been developed by some of the worlds leading
experts in language assessment, and is supported by
an extensive programme of research, validation and
test development.

The IELTS band score scale

9

Expert user

Very good user

Good user

Competent user

Modest user

Limited user

Extremely limited user

Intermittent user

Non-user

Did not attempt the test

The level of the test

IELTS is designed to assess English language skills across
a wide range of levels. There is no such thing as a pass or
fail in IELTS. Results are reported as band scores on a scale
of 1 (the lowest) to 9 (the highest).

IELTS for UK Visas and Immigration

Find out how you can use an IELTS result
for this purpose at IELTSessentials.com/uk.
For more information on going to or staying
in the UK,visit www.gov.uk.

IELTS Support Tools

Which
test
What
isthe
the
What
is
do you need?
IELTStest
test
IELTS
format?
format?

Before booking your test, understand if you need IELTS Academic or IELTS General Training.

Choose
from
anacademic
academic
test
English
moregeneral
general
testofwill
ofEnglish.
English.
Choose
from
test
ofof
English
oror
a amore
test
IELTS
is available
in twoan
different
versions: Academic
and
General
Training.
Each
organisation
that accepts
IELTS
normally
specify which version

of IELTS you will need for your application. In some cases both Academic or General Training may be accepted. If you are in doubt as to which to take,
you should contact the organisation you are applying to in order to check their requirements.
In both Academic and General Training tests, you are tested on all four language skills listening, reading, writing and speaking, unless you have an
exemption due to a disability. Everyone takes the same Listening and Speaking tests. There are different Reading and Writing tests for IELTS Academic
and General Training.

IELTS
Academic
IELTS
Academic

IELTS
General
Training
IELTS
General
Training

The Listening, Reading and Writing tests must be completed on the same day. The order in which these tests are taken may vary. There are no breaks
between
these
three
tests. The Speaking
test
may
beEnglish
taken to
upto
to study
seven days before or after the other three tests.
If you
need
to
demonstrate
your
level
If you
need
to
demonstrate
your
level
of of
English
study

higher
education
if you
seeking
professional
forfor
higher
education
or or
if you
areare
seeking
professional
registration,
you
may
need
take
Academic
test.
registration,
you
may
need
to to
take
thethe
Academic
test.

IELTS Academic

IELTS General Training

Listening*
minutes)
Listening*
(30(30
minutes)

Listening*
minutes)
Listening*
(30(30
minutes)

Four
recorded
monologues
conversations
Four
recorded
monologues
andand
conversations

Four
recorded
monologues
conversations
Four
recorded
monologues
andand
conversations

Reading
minutes)
Reading
(60(60
minutes)

Reading
minutes)
Reading
(60(60
minutes)

Three
long
reading
passages
tasks
Three
long
reading
passages
withwith
tasks
Texts
may
include
diagrams,
graphs
or illustrations
Texts
may
include
diagrams,
graphs
or illustrations
Texts
taken
from
books,
journals,
magazines
Texts
areare
taken
from
books,
journals,
magazines
newspapers
andand
newspapers

Section
1 contains
or three
short
factual
texts
Section
1 contains
twotwo
or three
short
factual
texts
Section
2 contains
short,
work
related,
factual
texts
Section
2 contains
twotwo
short,
work
related,
factual
texts
Section
3 contains
longer
a topic
Section
3 contains
oneone
longer
texttext
on on
a topic
of of
general
interest
general
interest
Texts
authentic
taken
from
notices,
advertisements,
Texts
areare
authentic
taken
from
notices,
advertisements,
company
handbooks,
official
documents,
books
company
handbooks,
official
documents,
books
newspapers
andand
newspapers

Writing
minutes)
Writing
(60(60
minutes)

Writing
minutes)
Writing
(60(60
minutes)

Writing
ofleast
at least
words
where
taker
must
Writing
tasktask
of at
150150
words
where
thethe
testtest
taker
must
summarise,
describe
or explain
a table,
graph,
chart
or diagram
summarise,
describe
or explain
a table,
graph,
chart
or diagram
Short
essay
task
of least
at least
words
Short
essay
task
of at
250250
words

Letter
writing
ofleast
at least
words
Letter
writing
tasktask
of at
150150
words
Short
essay
ofleast
at least
words
Short
essay
tasktask
of at
250250
words

Speaking*
to 14
minutes)
Speaking*
(11(11
to 14
minutes)

Speaking*
to 14
minutes)
Speaking*
(11(11
to 14
minutes)

Face-to-face
interview
without
disruptions
or distractions
Face-to-face
interview
without
disruptions
or distractions
Includes
short
questions,
speaking
at length
about
Includes
short
questions,
speaking
at length
about
a a
familiar
topic
a structured
discussion
familiar
topic
andand
a structured
discussion

Face-to-face
interview
without
disruptions
or distractions
Face-to-face
interview
without
disruptions
or distractions
Includes
short
questions,
speaking
at length
about
Includes
short
questions,
speaking
at length
about
a a
familiar
topic
a structured
discussion
familiar
topic
andand
a structured
discussion

* The Listening and Speaking components are the same for both IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training.

IELTS Support Tools

IELTS
nine-band scale

IELTS nine-band scale

Your performance on test day in each language skill (listening, reading, writing and
Your performance on test day in each language skill (listening, reading, writing and speaking)
speaking)
is reported as a band score on a scale of 1 (the lowest) to 9 (the highest).
is reported as a band score on a scale of 1 (the lowest) to 9 (the highest). All parts of the test
All
parts
of the test
theare
overall
bandinscore
reported
whole
half7.0,
bands,
and
the overall
bandand
score
reported
wholeare
or half
bandsin(e.g.
6.0,or6.5,
7.5, etc.).
e.g. 7.0, 8.5.

Expert user

Very good user

Has fully operational command of the language with only occasional unsystematic
inaccuracies and inappropriacies. Misunderstandings may occur in unfamiliar situations.
Handles complex, detailed argumentation well.

Good user

Has operational command of the language, although with occasional inaccuracies,

inappropriacies and misunderstandings in some situations. Generally handles complex
language well and understands detailed reasoning.

Competent user

Has generally effective command of the language despite some inaccuracies, inappropriacies
and misunderstandings. Can use and understand fairly complex language, particularly in
familiar situations.

Modest user

Limited user

Basic competence is limited to familiar situations. Has frequent problems in understanding

and expression. Is not able to use complex language.

Extremely limited user

Conveys and understands only general meaning in very familiar situations.

Frequent breakdowns in communication occur.

Intermittent user

No real communication is possible except for the most basic information using isolated
words or short formulae in familiar situations and to meet immediate needs. Has great

Non-user

Essentially has no ability to use the language beyond possibly a few isolated words.

Did not attempt the test

No assessable information provided.

with complete understanding.

Has partial command of the language, coping with overall meaning in most situations,
although is likely to make many mistakes. Should be able to handle basic communication

IELTS Support Tools

Tips for your

Listening test

Listening test format, 30 minutes

The Listening component is the same for both versions of
IELTS (Academic and General Training). There are four parts.
You will hear the recording only once. A variety of voices and
native-speaker accents are used.
Section 1: A conversation between two people set in an everyday
social context (e.g. a conversation about accommodation).

Section 2: A monologue set in an everyday social context

(e.g. a speech about local facilities or about arrangements
for meals during a conference).
Section 3: A conversation between up to four people set in
an educational or training context (e.g. a university tutor and
a student discussing an assignment, or a group of people
planning a project).
Section 4: A talk (e.g. a university lecture).

Tips
1. At the beginning of each section read the questions for that
section carefully, before the recording starts. This will help
you to follow the recording and identify the answers.
2. After completing a section, it is better to look ahead and read the
questions for the next section than to worry about the last section.
3. You will sometimes have a list of options to choose from as
answers. The possible answers may be listed in alphabetical
order and not necessarily in the order you will hear them.
4. Be careful to note word limits. If there is an instruction: Write
no more than two words, writing more than two words will mean
you will receive no marks at all for your answer, even if some of
the words are correct.
5. Try to listen for key words or synonyms (words that have the
same or nearly the same meaning as another word) from the
question to help you identify the answer. For example, in the
recording you might hear: She likes going to the gym and playing
tennis. On your answer sheet, this could appear as She is an
active person.

7. Listen carefully for words that indicate which stage of the

recording you are listening to, e.g. firstly, my next point,
to sum up. These words will help you identify which question
you have reached.
8. As you are listening to the recording, cross out options that
dont fit. This makes it easier for you to find the right answer.
9. If you are writing dates as an answer to any question, remember
that there are several correct ways to write them (e.g. 24th April,
April 24 and 24 April are all correct).
10. If there are questions you cannot answer leave them and move
on to the next question. This will help you to stay calm and
positive. Go back to those questions at the end, if you have time.
11. After the last recording has ended you have 10 minutes to
transfer your answers from the Listening booklet to your answer
sheet. Dont make the mistake of copying these answers across
to the answer sheet in between sections or you may miss
important information about the next section of the test. Wait
until the end of Section 4 before transferring your answers.

6. You may be asked to write down words that have been spelled
out in the recording. In order to do this well, you need to know the
English alphabet and how each letter is pronounced (for example,
the letter W is pronounced as double-u).

For free sample tests visit

IELTSessentials.com/sampletests

IELTS Support Tools

Tips for your

Reading test

Reading test format

IELTS Academic, 60 minutes

Reading test format

IELTS General Training, 60 minutes

There are three sections, each containing one long text.

There are three sections.

The texts are all real and are taken from books, magazines and
newspapers. They have been written for a non-specialist audience
and are on academic topics of general interest, which means you
do not need specialist knowledge to do well.

Section 1: Contains two or three short factual texts, one of which

may be composite (consisting of 6-8 short texts related by topic,
e.g. hotel advertisements). Topics are relevant to everyday life in
an English-speaking country.

The texts are appropriate to, and accessible to, candidates

entering undergraduate or postgraduate courses or seeking
professional registration.

Section 2: Contains two short factual texts focusing on work-related

issues (e.g. applying for jobs, company policies, pay and conditions,
workplace facilities, staff development and training).

Texts range from the descriptive and factual to the discursive

and analytical. Texts may contain nonverbal materials such as
diagrams, graphs or illustrations.

Section 3: Contains one longer, more complex text on a topic

of general interest.

If texts contain technical terms, then a simple glossary is provided.

You will be reading real passages taken from notices,

advertisements, company handbooks, official documents,
books, magazines and newspapers.

Tips
1. To improve your performance in the Reading test you need to
practise reading a variety of English texts. This will help you
develop the ability to read quickly.
2. Read every question carefully first before reading the passages.
This will make it easier for you to find the answers. Underline
possible answers as you go.
3. When you come to reading the passage, read it quickly the first
time in order to get a general idea of what its about. Dont worry
about words you do not understand. Then read each question
again to remind yourself which parts of the passage you will
need to read again in detail.
4. The Reading passages always contain the information you
need to answer the question. You wont have to use your own
knowledge of a topic.
5. If you are copying words from a question or reading passage to
use in your answer, remember that your spelling must be accurate.

For free sample tests visit

IELTSessentials.com/sampletests

6. The Reading test may sometimes include questions that test your
overall understanding of a passage. For example, the question
may ask what the topic of a particular passage is. Try underlining
key words and ideas in each paragraph as you read to help you
understand the key message of each passage.
7. Circle or underline key words as you read. For example, if a
reading passage contains many place names or dates, circle
them as you go along. This will make it easier to find these
details later if they come up in any of the questions.
8. If you are asked to label a diagram, you will find the words you
need in the text. Be sure to copy them carefully from the text with
the correct spelling.
9. If there are questions you cannot answer, leave them and move
on to the next question. This will help you to stay calm and
positive. Go back to those questions at the end, if you have time.
10. Make sure you write down your answers for the Reading test on
the answer sheet not the question paper. There will be no extra
time to transfer your answers after the Reading test.

IELTS Support Tools

Tips for your

Writing test

Writing test format

IELTS Academic, 60 minutes

Writing test format

IELTS General Training, 60 minutes

There are two parts. Responses to Task 1 and Task 2 should be written
in an academic, semi-formal or neutral style.

There are two parts. Topics are of general interest.

Task 1: You are presented with a graph, table, chart or diagram and
are asked to summarise and report the information in your own words.
You may be asked to select and compare data, describe the stages
of a process, describe an object or how something works.
Task 2: You are asked to write an essay in response to a point of view,
argument or problem. Task 2 contributes twice as much as Task 1 to the
Writing score.

Task 1: You are presented with a situation and are asked to write
a letter requesting information or explaining the situation. The letter
may be personal, semi-formal or formal in style.
Task 2: You are asked to write an essay in response to a point of view,
argument or problem. The essay can be less formal in style with a more
personal response than the Academic Writing Task 2 essay. Task 2
contributes twice as much as Task 1 to the Writing score.

The issues raised are of general interest to, suitable for and easily
understood by test takers entering undergraduate or postgraduate
studies or seeking professional registration.

Tips
1. In your Writing test there are no right or wrong answers or
opinions. The examiners are assessing how well you can
use your English to report information and express ideas.
2. Analyse the questions carefully to make sure your answer
addresses all the points covered by the question.
3. Notice the minimum word limit. If you write less than 150 words
for Task 1 and less than 250 for Task 2, you will lose marks.
4. Be careful to use your own words because the examiner will
not include words copied from the question in the word count.
5. You must write both your answers in full, not in note form or
in bullet points. You must arrange your ideas in paragraphs,
to show the examiner that you are able to organise your main
and supporting points.
6. You do not have to write very long sentences to do well in your
Writing test. If sentences are too long, they will become less
coherent and also make it harder for you to control the grammar.
7. In Academic Writing Task 1 you have to select and compare
relevant information from data presented in a graph, table or
diagram. In your introduction, do not copy the text from the
question. Use your own words. You shouldnt try to interpret
or give reasons for the data; keep your response factual.

For free sample tests visit

IELTSessentials.com/sampletests

8. Task 2 of the Academic Writing test is an essay. Dont forget

to plan your essay structure before you start writing. You
should include an introduction, ideas to support your argument
or opinion, real-life examples to illustrate your points, and
a conclusion based on the information you have provided.
9. You have 40 minutes to write your Task 2 essay. Make sure you
give yourself up to five minutes to plan your answer before you
start writing. Also leave five minutes at the end to review your
answer and check for mistakes.
10. Make your position or point of view as clear as possible in your
essay for Academic Writing Task 2. Your last paragraph should
be a conclusion that is consistent with the arguments you have
included in your essay.
11. Memorising a model answer for the Writing test wont help you.
The examiner will see that your answer does not match the topic
of the essay.
12. Many candidates confuse singular and plural nouns. For
example, the plural form for many nouns includes an s
students, journals, articles, issues. Pay attention to this
when writing.
13. Take care to spell words correctly. Standard American,
Australian and British spellings are acceptable in IELTS.

IELTS Support Tools

Tips for your

Speaking test

Speaking test format, 1114 minutes

The Speaking component is the same for both versions of IELTS
(Academic and General Training). There are three parts. The test is
recorded.
Part 1: Introduction and interview (45 minutes). The examiner introduces
him/herself and asks you to introduce yourself and confirm your identity.
The examiner asks you general questions on familiar topics (e.g. family,
work, studies and interests).

Part 2: Individual long turn (34 minutes). The examiner gives you a task
card that asks you to talk about a particular topic and which includes
points you can cover in your talk. You are given one minute to prepare
your talk, and you are given a pencil and paper to make notes. You talk
for one to two minutes on the topic. The examiner then asks you one or
two questions on the same topic.
Part 3: Two-way discussion (45 minutes). The examiner asks further
questions that are connected to the topic of Part 2. This gives you an
opportunity to discuss more general issues and ideas.

Tips
1. In the lead up to the Speaking test, make sure you take the time
to practise speaking English with friends, at work and on the
phone. You should also consider recording yourself, so that you
are confident speaking English during your test.
2. There are no right or wrong answers in the Speaking test. The
examiner will assess you on how well you can express your ideas
and opinions in good English.
3. It will help you to feel relaxed if you imagine you are talking to
a friend. Remember that you are not being assessed on your
opinions, rather on your use of English.
4. Try to avoid repeating the words used in the examiners question.
Use your own words to show the examiner your full ability.
5. Speak clearly and at a natural pace. If you speak too quickly,
you may make mistakes or pronounce words incorrectly.
6. Answer in as much detail as you can. Dont just answer yes or
no. Try to develop your response to each question draw on
your own experience and give examples. The examiner wants
to hear whether you can talk at length on a range of topics.
7. Use the correct verb tense when answering questions in the
Speaking test. Listen carefully to the question and notice which
verb tense is used. For example, if the question is What kind

For free sample tests visit

IELTSessentials.com/sampletests

of music do you like? (in the present tense) your answer should
also be in the present tense (e.g. I like pop music best). You
can go on to use other tenses as you extend your response,
e.g. I havent always enjoyed that kind of music....
8. Practise the pronunciation of numbers to be sure that your
meaning is clear. For example, many numbers can sound very
similar when spoken, so be sure to say them clearly, e.g. Thirty
and Thirteen, Forty and Fourteen, Fifty and Fifteen, etc.
9. It is better to use simple, commonly used vocabulary and to use
it correctly than to use advanced vocabulary that you are unsure
about. However, to get a high score, you must show you know
how to use more advanced vocabulary.
10. In Part 2, the examiner will give you a task card and some paper.
You then have one minute to prepare your answer. First think
about the topic and then decide which is the most appropriate
tense to use in your response. You should use the same tense(s)
as the questions on the card.
11. Try to answer as fully as possible and give reasons for your
answers. This will help you to use a wider range of vocabulary
and grammar.

IELTS Support Tools

How your skills

are assessed

There is no pass or fail in an IELTS test your test

results provide a profile of your ability to use English.

The nine-band scoring system

Marking performance fairly

IELTS uses a nine-band scoring system to measure your test

results. You will receive individual scores for each of the four
skills in listening, reading, writing and speaking, and an overall
band score on a scale of 1 (the lowest) to 9 (the highest).

Examiners do not see any of your personal details (including any

previous scores if you have sat the test before), which ensures
that they mark your performance anonymously and fairly. Different
examiners also mark different sections of your test.

Assessed by highly qualified examiners

Global assessment criteria

Your test results are assessed by examiners who are highly

qualified and experienced English language professionals.
They work to clearly defined criteria and are subject to
extensive and detailed quality control procedures.

Your IELTS test is marked with the same assessment criteria

used all over the world. You are no more likely to receive a higher
band score in one country than another.

IELTS Support Tools

10

IELTS Support Tools

11

Speaking assessment criteria

is willing to speak at length, though may lose coherence at times

due to occasional repetition, self-correction or hesitation
uses a range of connectives and discourse markers but not
always appropriately

cannot respond without noticeable pauses and may speak slowly,

with frequent repetition and self-correction
links basic sentences but with repetitious use of simple
connectives and some breakdowns in coherence

speaks with long pauses

has limited ability to link simple sentences
gives only simple responses and is frequently unable to convey basic
message

pauses lengthily before most words

little communication possible

no communication possible
no rateable language

does not attend

Lexical resource

only produces isolated word or memorised

utterances

uses simple vocabulary to convey personal

information

is able to talk about familiar topics but can

only convey basic meaning on unfamiliar topics
and makes frequent errors in word choice
rarely attempts paraphrase

attempts to use paraphrase but with mixed success

manages to talk about familiar and unfamiliar

has a wide enough vocabulary to discuss topics

at length and make meaning clear in spite of
inappropriacies
generally paraphrases successfully

a variety of topics
uses some less common and idiomatic vocabulary
and shows some awareness of style and
collocation, with some inappropriate choices
uses paraphrase effectively

uses less common and idiomatic vocabulary

skilfully, with occasional inaccuracies
uses paraphrase effectively as required

uses a wide vocabulary resource readily

in all topics
uses idiomatic language naturally and accurately

IELTS is jointly owned by the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia and Cambridge English Language Assessment.

self-correction and/or slow speech to keep going

may over-use certain connectives and discourse markers

speaks at length without noticeable effort or loss of coherence

may demonstrate language-related hesitation at times, or some
repetition and/or self-correction
uses a range of connectives and discourse markers with some

hesitation is usually content-related and only rarely to search

for language
develops topics coherently and appropriately

speaks coherently with fully appropriate cohesive features

develops topics fully and appropriately

Fluency and coherence

Band

Speaking assessment criteria

cannot produce basic sentence forms

attempts basic sentence forms but with limited

success, or relies on apparently memorised
utterances
makes numerous errors except
in memorised expressions

produces basic sentence forms and some correct

simple sentences but subordinate structures are rare
errors are frequent and may lead to misunderstanding

produces basic sentence forms with

reasonable accuracy
uses a limited range of more complex structures,
but these usually contain errors and may cause
some comprehension problems

may make frequent mistakes with complex

structures, though these rarely cause
comprehension problems

uses a mix of simple and complex structures,

frequently produces error-free sentences,

though some grammatical mistakes persist

uses a range of complex structures with some

produces a majority of error-free sentences

with only very occasional inappropriacies or
basic/non-systematic errors

uses a full range of structures naturally and

appropriately
produces consistently accurate structures apart
from slips characteristic of native speaker speech

Grammatical range and accuracy

speech is often unintelligible

shows some of the features of Band 2 and some,

but not all, of the positive features of Band 4

uses a limited range of pronunciation features

attempts to control features but lapses are frequent
mispronunciations are frequent and cause some

shows all the positive features of Band 4 and

some, but not all, of the positive features of Band 6

uses a range of pronunciation features with mixed

control
shows some effective use of features
but this is not sustained
can generally be understood throughout,
though mispronunciation of individual words
or sounds reduces clarity at times

shows all the positive features of Band 6 and some,

but not all, of the positive features of Band 8

uses a wide range of pronunciation features

occasional lapses
is easy to understand throughout; L1 accent
has minimal effect on intelligibility

is effortless to understand

uses a full range of pronunciation features

with precision and subtlety

Pronunciation

IELTS Support Tools

12

fails to address the task, which may have been

completely misunderstood
presents limited ideas which may be largely irrelevant/repetitive

answer is barely related to the task

fails to communicate any message

has very little control of organisational features

does not organise ideas logically

may use a very limited range of cohesive devices,
and those used may not indicate a logical
relationship between ideas

presents information and ideas but these are

not arranged coherently and there is no clear
progression in the response
uses some basic cohesive devices but these
may be inaccurate or repetitive

presents information with some organisation

but there may be a lack of overall progression
makes inadequate, inaccurate or over-use
of cohesive devices
may be repetitive because of lack of referencing
and substitution

arranges information and ideas coherently

and there is a clear overall progression
uses cohesive devices effectively, but cohesion
within and/or between sentences may be faulty
or mechanical
may not always use referencing clearly
or appropriately

logically organises information and ideas; there

is clear progression throughout
uses a range of cohesive devices appropriately
although there may be some under-/ over-use

sequences information and ideas logically

manages all aspects of cohesion well

uses cohesion in such a way that it attracts

no attention
skilfully manages paragraphing

IELTS is jointly owned by the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia and Cambridge English Language Assessment.

does not attend

does not attempt the task in any way
writes a totally memorised response

attempts to address the task but does not cover all key
features/bullet points; the format may be inappropriate
(GT) fails to clearly explain the purpose of the letter;
the tone may be inappropriate
may confuse key features/bullet points with detail;
parts may be unclear, irrelevant, repetitive or inaccurate

generally addresses the task; the format may be inappropriate in places

(A) recounts detail mechanically with no clear overview; there may
be no data to support the description
(GT) may present a purpose for the letter that is unclear at times;
the tone may be variable and sometimes inappropriate
presents, but inadequately covers, key features/ bullet points;
there may be a tendency to focus on details

answer is completely unrelated to the task

addresses the requirements of the task

(A) presents an overview with information appropriately selected
(GT) presents a purpose that is generally clear; there may
be inconsistencies in tone
presents and adequately highlights key features/bullet points
but details may be irrelevant, inappropriate or inaccurate

covers the requirements of the task

(A) presents a clear overview of main trends, differences or stages
(GT) presents a clear purpose, with the tone consistent and appropriate
clearly presents and highlights key features/bullet points but could
be more fully extended

presents, highlights and illustrates key features/bullet

points clearly and appropriately

clearly presents a fully developed response

Task achievement

Band

Coherence and cohesion

Writing assessment criteria Task 1

Writing assessment criteria Task 1

can only use a few isolated words

uses an extremely limited range of vocabulary;

essentially no control of word formation and/or spelling

uses only a very limited range of words

and expressions with very limited control
of word formation and/or spelling
errors may severely distort the message

uses only basic vocabulary which may be used

repetitively or which may be inappropriate for the task
has limited control of word formation and/or spelling;
errors may cause strain for the reader

for the reader

uses a limited range of vocabulary, but this

is minimally adequate for the task
may make noticeable errors in spelling and/or

uses an adequate range of vocabulary for the task

attempts to use less common vocabulary
but with some inaccuracy
makes some errors in spelling and/or word
formation, but they do not impede communication

uses less common lexical items with some

awareness of style and collocation
may produce occasional errors in word choice,
spelling and/or word formation

skilfully uses uncommon lexical items but there may be

occasional inaccuracies in word choice and collocation
produces rare errors in spelling and/or word formation

uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural

and sophisticated control of lexical features; rare
minor errors occur only as slips

Lexical resource

and accuracy; rare minor errors occur only as slips

cannot use sentence forms at all

cannot use sentence forms except

in memorised phrases

attempts sentence forms but errors in grammar and

punctuation predominate and distort the meaning

uses only a very limited range of structures

with only rare use of subordinate clauses
some structures are accurate but errors
predominate, and punctuation is often faulty

uses only a limited range of structures

attempts complex sentences but these tend
to be less accurate than simple sentences
may make frequent grammatical errors and
punctuation may be faulty; errors can cause

uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms

makes some errors in grammar and punctuation
but they rarely reduce communication

uses a variety of complex structures

produces frequent error-free sentences
has good control of grammar and punctuation
but may make a few errors

uses a wide range of structures

the majority of sentences are error-free
makes only very occasional errors
or inappropriacies

Grammatical range and accuracy

IELTS Support Tools

13

Task response

addresses all parts of the task although some parts may be more fully
covered than others
presents a relevant position although the conclusions may become
unclear or repetitive
presents relevant main ideas but some may be inadequately
developed/unclear

addresses the task only partially; the format may be inappropriate

in places
expresses a position but the development is not always clear
and there may be no conclusions drawn

developed; there may be irrelevant detail

responds to the task only in a minimal way or the answer

is tangential; the format may be inappropriate
presents a position but this is unclear
presents some main ideas but these are difficult to identify and
may be repetitive, irrelevant or not well supported

does not adequately address any part of the task

does not express a clear position
presents few ideas, which are largely undeveloped or irrelevant

barely responds to the task

does not express a position
may attempt to present one or two ideas but there is no development

answer is completely unrelated to the task

does not attend

does not attempt the task in any way
writes a totally memorised response

fails to communicate any message

has very little control of organisational features

does not organise ideas logically

may use a very limited range of cohesive devices,
and those used may not indicate a logical
relationship between ideas

presents information and ideas but these are

not arranged coherently and there is no clear
progression in the response
uses some basic cohesive devices but these
may be inaccurate or repetitive
may not write in paragraphs or their use may
be confusing

presents information with some organisation

but there may be a lack of overall progression
makes inadequate, inaccurate or over-use
of cohesive devices
may be repetitive because of lack of referencing
and substitution
may not write in paragraphs, or paragraphing
may be inadequate

arranges information and ideas coherently

and there is a clear overall progression
uses cohesive devices effectively, but cohesion within
and/or between sentences may be faulty or mechanical
may not always use referencing clearly or appropriately
uses paragraphing, but not always logically

logically organises information and ideas; there

is clear progression throughout
uses a range of cohesive devices appropriately
although there may be some under-/over-use
presents a clear central topic within each paragraph

sequences information and ideas logically

manages all aspects of cohesion well

uses cohesion in such a way that it attracts

no attention
skilfully manages paragraphing

IELTS is jointly owned by the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia and Cambridge English Language Assessment.

addresses all parts of the task

presents a clear position throughout the response
presents, extends and supports main ideas, but there may be a
tendency to over-generalise and/or supporting ideas may lack focus

presents a well-developed response to the question

with relevant, extended and supported ideas

fully addresses all parts of the task

presents a fully developed position in answer to the question
with relevant, fully extended and well supported ideas

Band

Coherence and cohesion

Writing assessment criteria Task 2

Writing assessment criteria Task 2

Lexical resource

can only use a few isolated words

uses an extremely limited range of vocabulary;

essentially no control of word formation and/or spelling

uses only a very limited range of words and

expressions with very limited control of word
formation and/or spelling
errors may severely distort the message

uses only basic vocabulary which may be used

repetitively or which may be inappropriate for
the task
has limited control of word formation and/or spelling;
errors may cause strain for the reader

for the reader

uses a limited range of vocabulary,

but this is minimally adequate for the task
may make noticeable errors in spelling and/or

uses an adequate range of vocabulary for the task

attempts to use less common vocabulary but with
some inaccuracy
makes some errors in spelling and/or word
formation, but they do not impede communication

uses less common lexical items with

some awareness of style and collocation
may produce occasional errors in word choice,
spelling and/or word formation

skilfully uses uncommon lexical items but there may be

occasional inaccuracies in word choice and collocation
produces rare errors in spelling and/or word formation

uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural

and sophisticated control of lexical features; rare
minor errors occur only as slips

and accuracy; rare minor errors occur only as slips

Grammatical range and accuracy

cannot use sentence forms at all

cannot use sentence forms except

in memorised phrases

attempts sentence forms but errors in grammar and

punctuation predominate and distort the meaning

uses only a very limited range of structures

with only rare use of subordinate clauses
some structures are accurate but errors
predominate, and punctuation is often faulty

uses only a limited range of structures

attempts complex sentences but these tend
to be less accurate than simple sentences
may make frequent grammatical errors and
punctuation may be faulty; errors can cause

uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms

makes some errors in grammar and punctuation
but they rarely reduce communication

uses a variety of complex structures

produces frequent error-free sentences
has good control of grammar and punctuation
but may make a few errors

uses a wide range of structures

the majority of sentences are error-free
makes only very occasional errors or inappropriacies

How to complete the

Listening answer sheet
In the Listening test you will be required to complete an answer sheet with your responses.
Below is a sample answer sheet with tips on how to fill it out correctly.
Write your candidate number in the boxes
indicated and shade the corresponding boxes

Write your name

in capital letters

Shade the boxes

to indicate the
test date
Write your answers
in the boxes

If you want to
change an answer,
erase or cross out
the original answer
and write in the
new answer

Do not write
anything in the
/ columns

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How to complete the

Listening answer sheet
Write your language code in the boxes indicated
and shade the corresponding boxes (your
language code will be written on your desk label)

Write your name

in capital letters
Write your
candidate number

Shade a box to
indicate your gender
Shade a box to
indicate which version
you are taking

IELTS Support Tools

15

Sample
speaking tests
Your Speaking test is designed to assess your use of spoken English.
Examiners use detailed assessment criteria to assess your performance. You will be assessed according to four criteria
in your Speaking test: Fluency and Coherence, Lexical Resource, Grammatical Range and Accuracy, and Pronunciation.

See recordings of real speaking tests on our

YouTube channel: youtube.com/IELTSessentials

IELTS Support Tools

16

IELTS preparation checklist

Preparing for IELTS takes time and requires practice.
Before booking your test for the first time, or re-sitting the test again, ask yourself whether you have taken the necessary steps to ensure you have the
best opportunity to succeed. Follow these tips in the months and weeks before your test and you will feel more confident and ready to take the test.

First steps

Tick when complete

Register for the test. There are 48 test dates per year and IDP IELTS offers over 200 test locations all over the world.
To find a test centre near you or to book your test,visit IELTSessentials.com
Check the IELTS score required by your chosen university, institution, employer or organisation. You can search a list of over
9000 organisations which accept IELTS at IELTSessentials.com. Cant find the organisation youre looking for? Contact the
organisation directly to check their IELTS requirements.
Improve your English
Taking an English language course is one of the quickest ways to improve your English. The feedback you receive from your
teacher will help you improve the specific skills involved in speaking, listening, reading and writing English.
Test preparation is different to an English language course, as it will not help improve your English. An IELTS preparation course can
help you familiarise yourself with the types of tasks included in an IELTS test. Ask your local IELTS test centre for more information
about a preparation course near you.
Use your English everyday
Listen to English language radio, television and film. You should try to listen to a variety of English accents including American,
Australian, British, Canadian and New Zealand.
Read English publications such as newspapers and magazines regularly.
Write letters, emails or notes in English whenever possible.
Speak English with your friends and family.
Practise with sample questions
Practise the free IELTS test sample available at IELTSessentials.com/prepare
Use the Official IELTS Practice Materials (two books available) which include sample questions and sample responses with
examiner comments. Purchase these online or from your local test centre.
There is a wide range of IELTS preparation material available for purchase at bookshops and online. For a list of popular books
visit IELTSessentials.com/purchase
The day before the test
Re-read the Information for Candidates booklet and Notice to Candidates again to ensure that you understand the test format
and rules.
Plan your journey ensure you know how to get to the test venue so that you arrive in time. Also get plenty of rest the night
before your test to help you feel more relaxed on the day.
Test day
Allow plenty of time to travel to the test venue to ensure you arrive on time.
Bring your passport/national identity card with you: You must have the same identification that you provided on your IELTS
Application Form or you will not be able to take the test.
Bring stationery: Pens, pencils and erasers that you need for the test.

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What to expect on test day

Understand how a test day is run so that you arrive prepared and can focus on doing your best.
The Listening, Reading and Writing tests are always taken on the same day, in the same session. The order in which these tests are taken may vary.
The Speaking test may be sat the same day or up to seven days before or after the other tests, depending on your test centre.
The IELTS test implements sophisticated, biometric security measures that protect test takers and organisations from attempts to cheat. Below is an
overview of what you can expect on test day.

Arrive early
You should arrive early for your test in order to allow time for you to register and be seated for the test. Please refer to your booking
confirmation for details. If you arrive late, you may not be allowed to take the test.

Check in your personal items

No personal items to be taken into the test room (except for religious reasons). Test day staff will collect and safely store your personal
belongings. Items which are forbidden from the test room include: mobile phones, hand-held computers, cameras, hats, scarves, wallets,
books, notes or food.

ID check
When you register on test day, a member of staff will check your identification (ID). Your ID must be the same ID that you used when you
booked the test. It must also be valid (unexpired) and a recognisable photo of yourself.
If you booked your test at a test centre then a photograph and finger scan may have been taken already. If not, these will be
taken when you arrive on test day. Before you enter the test room, your finger will be scanned again to verify your identity.

Entering the test room

When it is time to enter the test room, a test invigilator will guide you to your seat. Do not write any notes. You are not permitted to speak
to any other candidates. If you have a question, put up your hand and a member of staff will assist you. On your desk, you are only allowed
to have drink that is in a transparent bottle.

Breaks
You are not permitted to leave during the first or last five minutes of either component of the test. If you need to leave the test room to go
to the bathroom at any other time, raise your hand and ask a member of staff.

Asking for help

If you have a problem (e.g. if you think you have been given the wrong paper, you cannot hear the instructions, or you feel ill) raise your hand
to attract the attention of the invigilators. Please note that the invigilator will not provide any explanation of the questions.

End of the test

You cannot leave your seat until your papers have been collected and you have been told to leave. If you finish early you must wait quietly until
the test is finished and you are advised that you can leave. You must leave any notes and materials on the desk.

After the test

Collect your belongings. Your provisional results will be available online 13 calendar days after the test at https://results.ielts.org. Your official
results will appear on your Test Report Form which will also be ready after 13 days. You can collect it from the test centre or have it posted to
you depending on what was specified at the time of registration.

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Receiving
your results
You will receive a Test Report Form which reports a score for each of thefour skills
(listening, reading, writing and speaking), as well as an overall band score.
Half band scores may be awarded to indicate a strong performance within a particular band. You can find more information on score
processing andscore interpretation at IELTSessentials.com/criteria.
Results are available 13 calendar days after the test. At some test centres test takers may collect their results on the 13th day; atothers,
results are mailed on the 13th day. Test centres are not permitted to give results over the phone or by fax or email.
You will receive only one copy of the Test Report Form. Its important that you keep it safe as replacement Test Report Forms cannot be issued.
Test centres will send copies of your Test Report Form to up to five organisations free ofcharge.

Preview your results online

Re-taking IELTS

You can preview your results online 13 calendar days after the test.
Results remain online for 28 days. Please note that the online preview
of results should not be used as an official confirmation of your
performance.

There are no restrictions on re-taking IELTS. You can register for

a test as soon as you feel you are ready to do so. Please note that
your score is unlikely to increase unless you make a significant effort
to improve your English before re-taking the test. More information
is available fromIELTSessentials.com/resitting.

Results validity period

Organisations will not usually accept a Test Report Form that is more
than two years old unless you provide evidence that you have actively
maintained or tried to improve your English since taking the test. The
IELTS Test Partners cannot confirm the validity of test results that are
more than twoyears old.

Enquiries on results
If you are unhappy with your test result, you can apply for a re-mark
(Enquiry on Results) at the centre where you took the test. You must
make the application no later than six weeks after the test date. You
can choose which test components are re-marked. There is a fee for
this service which will be refunded if your score on any component
is increased. Enquiries on Results take six to eight weeks to complete.

IELTS for UK Visas and Immigration

Find out how you can use an IELTS result for this purpose
at IELTSessentials.com/uk. For more information on going
to or staying in the UK, visit www.gov.uk.

Copies of your Test Report Form are available for up to two years from
your test date.
To request copies of your Test Report Form, speak with your test centre.

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Find a test
near you

Available from more than 1000 locations in 140 countries, theres an IELTS test near you.

1. Find your preferred test centre

3. Receive confirmation

Contact details for all IDP IELTS test centres can be found at
IELTSessentials.com/testcentres, where you can make a test
booking online, or for some test centres, download an application
form for submitting in person or via post.

The test centre will give you written confirmation of the date and
time of the test. Your Speaking test time will be scheduled on the
same day as the written tests or on a different day within a 7-day
window before or after the written tests. The test centre will confirm
your Speaking test time.

2. Submit your registration

Read through all the information on the booking website carefully.
Complete the paper application form or online registration and
submit it to your nearest test centre. You will need to enclose
the test fee or make the payment online. Make sure you enter the
number of your identity document (your passport or national identity
card) and attach a clear colour photocopy or scanned copy of your
identity document to the application form. The identity document
must be valid at the time of registration and the same ID document
must be presented on the day of the test.

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20

Get more
preparation
material
and advice

IDP Education offers a number of ways

to help you prepare for your IELTS test.
Join the conversation
on Facebook

Get the IELTS Official

Practice Materials

Attend an IELTS
Masterclass

Become part of our community.

Get regular advice from our IELTS
experts and learn from what other
test takers have to share.

IELTS offers two volumes of official

practice materials to help you
understand the format of the test
and the types of questions. Both
volumes have samples for Reading,
Listening, Writing and Speaking.

IELTS Masterclass is a free seminar

that helps you understand the
assessment criteria, common
mistakes to avoid in your test and
what examiners are looking for
when scoring you.

Facebook.com/IELTSessentials

IELTSessentials.com/purchase

IELTSessentials.com/masterclass

facebook.com/IELTSessentials
IELTSessentials.com
IELTS Support Tools

22